1st XV vs Bloxwich (H) RFU Junior Vase

Old Wheatleyans were crowned RFU Midlands Junior Vase Champions on Saturday defeating Bloxwich RFC in a tightly fought contest. With over 300 spectators turning out at Norman Place Road, the Old Wheatleyans were determined to make the home advantage count. Both sides looked apprehensive from the start and the early exchanges suggested the game would be won by the smallest of margins. The Bloxwich Number 8, Adam Bowater, opened the scoring after 8minuites converting a penalty from 35m out. Shortly after, Old Wheats full back Henry Chamberlain equalled the scores converting from a similar distance at the opposite end. The remainder of the 1st half was played out with neither side able to claim dominance. The set pieces were equal with both sides managing to disrupt their opponents at key times. During the 3rd quarter Bloxwich spent long periods camped in the Old Wheats 22 but were unable to breakdown the quite remarkable defensive efforts. After clearing their lines the Old Wheats were starting to put some phases together frustrating the opposition who were marched back 10m for a comment made to the referee. This put them within kicking distance and Henry Chamberlain converted from 40m to make it 6-3 with 15 minutes left on the clock. Almost immediately from the re-start Bloxwich missed two chances to level the scores, both penalties sailing just wide. This lifted the Old Wheatleyans who again pressed to make their way up the field. Their patience was rewarded with prop Dominic Watson crashing over for an unconverted try. With just a few minutes left on the clock, Bloxwich refused to throw in the towel, they pressed and pressed the Old Wheats line but were unable to cross as tackle after tackle reigned in. This was to be the story of the day, the Old Wheats usual attacking prowess was not on display but they more than made up for it with a defensive performance that saw them crowned champions in the regional final. They now go onto play a national semi-final against Yorkshire side Baildon RFC on Saturday 7th April. With another home fixture the club would openly invite any rugby fan in the city to come a watch the match which kicks off at 1500hrs.